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B.J. Surhoff

Originally a catcher, B.J. Surhoff switched to third base with the Brewers, and later became a solid left fielder for several teams. His left-handed bat proved valuable in the lineup no matter where he played, and he was especially popular in Baltimore, where he spent two stints and enjoyed his best seasons. In the 1996 AL Division Series for the Orioles, Surhoff blasted three homers to help defeat the Indians in four games. He collected his 2,000th hit with the Braves in 2001.

Played For
Milwaukee Brewers (1987-1995)
Baltimore Orioles (1996-2000)
Atlanta Braves (2000-2002)
Baltimore Orioles (2003-2005)

Best Season: 1999
Enjoying a renaissance in his 30s with the Orioles, Surhoff collected 207 hits, scored 104 runs, and slugged 28 homers. He slapped 38 doubles and drove in 107 runs, batting a career-high .308 in 162 games. He earned his only All-Star selection.

Where He Played
Catcher (1987-1992), third base (1993-1994, 1996), outfield (1995, 1997-). Also played first base, DH, and even appeared in one game at second and shortstop. In the outfield, Surhoff was primarily a left fielder. B.J. was adequate at every position he played regularly, but was best in left field.

Born
William James Surhoff was born on August 4, 1964, in Bronx, NY.

Batted:  Left
Threw:  Right

Primary Position:  DH

Primary Team:  ML4

College:  North Carolina

Major League Debut
April 8, 1987

Nine Other Players Who Debuted in 1987
B.J. Surhoff
Edgar Martinez
Ellis Burks
Matt Williams
Ken Caminiti
Tom Glavine
Jose Mesa
Lance Johnson
Ron Gant

Similar Players
Jimmy Dykes and Tony Phillips

Post-Season Appearances
1996 American League Championship Series
1996 American League Divisional Series
1997 American League Championship Series
1997 American League Divisional Series
2000 National League Divisional Series
2001 National League Championship Series
2001 National League Divisional Series

All-Star Selections
1999 AL

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